In 2014, the National EMS Advisory Council (NEMSAC) recommended an update to the landmark EMS Agenda for the Future. The 1996 document guided the development of valuable EMS systems such as Mobile Integrated Healthcare and Community Health Paramedicine. Throughout 2017 and 2018, the EMS community and society members shared ideas, which resulted in the EMS Agenda 2050 (Download the PDF Version).
Published in 2019, the EMS Agenda 2050 envisions a people-centered EMS system built around principles that guide the advancement of EMS as technologies and practices evolve. The document’s preface highlights: “Our goal was not to predict exactly what will be, but to create a vision for what could be.”
Why 2050?
A lot can change in a few decades. Between 1996 and 2019, technology evolved, and many EMS practices changed. However, “history shows that while change can occur rapidly, many systemic and cultural shifts take a generation,” the document states.
“Trying to think that far ahead is a challenge. Some of the ideas presented here will be feasible immediately, while others may take decades to achieve. Many aspects of society, including healthcare, technology, and politics, will evolve between now and 2050 in ways that we cannot imagine. But no matter what the future brings us, the principles described in EMS Agenda 2050 are intended to serve as a guide to help us create systems that truly allow EMS to fulfill its mission.” (Page 10)
The Guiding Principles of EMS Agenda 2050
EMS Agenda 2050 outlined six guiding principles to achieve the vision by providing a framework that addresses the most critical aspects of developing a people-centered EMS system.
- Inherently safe and effective – EMS care and operations nationwide focus on practices that yield good outcomes and reduce harm.
- Integrated and seamless – EMS personnel have immediate access to any resources they need for their patients.
- Reliable and prepared – EMS care is consistent, compassionate, and guided by evidence. The system is prepared to provide the proper care through planning, education, leadership, and communication.
- Socially equitable – The most effective and efficient care is available to individuals regardless of social factors.
- Sustainable and efficient – EMS systems provide value to the community, minimize waste, and operate with transparency and accountability.
- Adaptable and innovative – EMS systems quickly and effectively meet the population’s evolving needs. EMS continuously and methodically evaluates new technologies, system designs, and educational programs safely and systematically.
EMS Agenda for the Future 2050
The EMS Agenda 2050 was prepared by a Technical Expert Panel with professionals from all over the United States. Several governmental entities support the document, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
As a company that works closely with many EMS providers in Texas, we see evidence of their commitment to the guiding principles of EMS Agenda 2050. EMERGICON strives to support our partner agencies in their efforts to build sustainable and efficient services. If you’d like to learn more about how EMERGICON is helping EMS agencies in Texas achieve EMS Agenda 2050, email support@emergicon.com.